Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies

The Why and How of a Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies

In an increasingly interconnected society, various organizations are in constant need of legal expertise. The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Legal Studies is an essential bridge between an associate degree in legal studies, such as a Legal Studies Associate in Applied Science Degree (A.A.S.) and a Master of Laws (LL.M.).

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A B.S. in Legal Studies does not qualify one as having attended law school and becoming eligible to sit for the bar examination. However, it does potentially enable you to enter the legal profession.

Program Objectives

The B.S. in Legal Studies aims to enhance the knowledge and capabilities of the students for potential careers in various law-related fields as well as those dealing with social sciences. After going through the program, graduates can typically expect to be able to develop:

Historical Perspective - Indentify and understand how various historical events and personalities have shaped the modern-day legal system in the US.

Research Skills- Carry out legal research as well as become well-versed in the basics of legalese.

Writing Skills - Identify as well as draft legal documents using various legal instruments to assist in the policy making of organizations, as well as subpoenas and investigations.

Communication Skills - Understand and explain the different rights that are conferred by the U.S. Supreme Court, the U.S. Constitution and its various amendments, including the Bill of Rights, on the citizens of the United States.

Critical Thinking - Make sense of the criminal and family laws and trace their evolution through the decades.

Apply– Select from a range of legal principles and incorporate them in real-life applications in cases dealing with economic, social and political matters.

Learn about laws and the American justice system by earning a bachelor of science in legal studies.

Courses and Areas Covered

Though the courses across various B.S. programs in Legal Studies may vary, the core areas remain the same. Some of these include:

Introduction to the American Legal System

Legal Ethics and Professional Values

Writing for Legal Professionals

Property Law

Constitutional Law

In addition to legal courses, most programs will have courses that have been designed to equip students with skills that they would require to perform effectively in a legal environment.

These may include areas such as:

Legal Writing

Public Speaking

Political Science

Intercultural Communication

Additional Benefits of a Bachelor in Legal Studies

Besides serving as a stepping stone to law school, the B.S. in Legal Studies can be beneficial otherwise as well.

Aid in preparation for certification exams for paralegals and legal assistants such as the following:

Those who do not wish to go to law school upon graduation can also chose to opt for a master’s degree in related areas and broaden the scope of their career options. These areas can include:

Master of Public Administration

Master of Science in Environmental Policy

Master of Science in Legal Studies

Admissions Requirements in a B.S. in Legal Studies

Educational institutes offering this degree tend to have more or less similar admissions requirements. However, they may have specific preferences as well that govern the intake of students into this program.

Possible Career Paths

Where a Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies will not allow you to practice law, it will still help in propelling you towards various respectable careers. The positions that you can possibly qualify for can be found across the board; in Federal and State-level governmental agencies, law firms, educational institutes, courthouses and private companies.

Arbitrators, Mediators, and Conciliators

Arbitrators –They have expertise in a particular legal field and attempt to settle disputes between opposing parties.

Mediators – They facilitate opposing parties in dispute settlements but cannot make final decisions.

Conciliators – Though being similar to mediators, they meet with opposing sides separately rather than jointly. However, they cannot seek out evidence or call witnesses.

*The median salaries are based on positions ranging from those in health care and social assistance institutes to legal services in law firms and other organizations.

Expected Job Growth (2012-2022) – 10% (BLS)

Legal Assistants

Tasks and Duties - They assist attorneys in preparing for corporate meetings, trials as well as hearings, often working in teams that may also include paralegals and legal support staff. They also have to review and draft legal documents and may be required to be present with lawyers during trials when presenting exhibits, going through transcripts and taking notes.

Median Annual Pay- $46,990 (BLS)

Expected Job Growth(2012-2022) - 17% (BLS)

Compliance Managers

Tasks and Duties- They have to document all activities regarding the compliance of employees to company policies. They may also have to conduct investigations when necessary, such as in the cases of policy violation, fraud and embezzlement. Provide information to employees regarding rules and regulations in the form of trainings and circulars.

Median Annual Pay - $100,890 (O*Net)

Expected Job Growth (2012-2022) – 3% to 7% (O*Net)

Closing Remarks

Popular TV shows such as Boston Legal and Suits and movies such as A Few Good Men may have glamorized the life of attorneys, paralegals and legal assistants. Such entertainment even goes to the extent of injecting high-adrenaline action and intrigue, with lawyers presenting indisputable evidence like rabbits out of a hat. However, the bottom line is that a successful case preparation, trial and receiving a desired verdict takes a lot of hard work, research and analysis and prior knowledge. This is where a recognized degree such as a B.S. in Legal Studies can help you acquire the necessary edge.

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Q:What is the duration of the B.S. degrees for paralegals?

A:The Bachelor of Sciences in Paralegal Studies is a four year degree program if opted in a traditional campus based institute. The duration of the degree differs if it is pursued online since online bachelor of sciences in paralegal studies is offered to students for flexibility. Students are allowed to schedule their own classes and take as much time as they require to complete the degree.

Q:What are the admission requirements for the bachelor of science in legal studies?

A:A B.S in legal studies is an undergraduate degree program that is normally pursued after finishing a high school diploma or an equivalent GED. However aside from school specific GPA requirements, it is preferable if the student has taken some related classes in high school such as; finance, computer science and income tax etc.

Q:What can I do after a completing a bachelor of legal studies?

A:After completing a bachelor's degree in legal studies students will be on the track to practice law. However, in order to do so students must first continue on to a master's degree in legal studies. After the master's degree they will be required to sit for the state's written bar examination which, if they pass, will enable them to have a career as a lawyer.

Q:What is Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies?

A:A Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies is a four year program intended for students aspiring to study law or for those who wish to enter the legal field as a paralegal or legal assistant. While the degree doesn't qualify you to practice law, it will help open doors for jobs in Federal and State-level governmental agencies, law firms, educational institutes, court rooms and private companies.